National Fortune Cookie Day celebrates the iconic crispy, folded cookies containing prophetic messages that have become a beloved tradition in American-Chinese dining. These vanilla-flavored treats, despite their association with Chinese cuisine, actually originated in Japan before becoming a staple of American culture.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: July 20th annually
- Tagged as: Food Holiday, Cultural Celebration
- What’s the hashtag?: #FortuneCookieDay #NationalFortuneCookieDay
- When was it founded?: Early 1900s
- Who founded it?: Origins disputed between Makoto Hagiwara and David Jung
History
The fortune cookie’s journey began in Japan with tsujiura senbei, a darker, less sweet cookie containing fortunes in its bend. The modern version emerged in California in the early 1900s, where Japanese immigrants adapted the recipe using vanilla and butter. The cookies gained widespread popularity during World War II and became synonymous with Chinese-American restaurants.
Timeline
- 1878: First documented fortune cookie appearance
- 1914: Makoto Hagiwara serves fortune cookies at Japanese Tea Garden
- 1920s: David Jung claims invention in Los Angeles
- 1964: First fortune cookie machine invented
- Present: Over 4 million cookies produced daily
Dates for Coming Years
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | July 20 | Sunday |
| 2026 | July 20 | Monday |
| 2027 | July 20 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | July 20 | Thursday |
| 2029 | July 20 | Friday |
Fun Facts
- Only four ingredients are used: flour, sugar, vanilla, and oil
- Over 3 billion fortune cookies are consumed annually
- Wonton Food produces over 4 million cookies daily
- There are approximately 15,000 unique fortunes in circulation
- Fortune cookies are virtually unknown in China
Quiz
- Where did fortune cookies originate?
- How many fortune cookies are produced daily?
- What are the four main ingredients?
(Answers: 1. Japan, 2. Over 4 million, 3. Flour, sugar, vanilla, and oil)
FAQs
Q: Are fortune cookies Chinese?
A: No, they originated in Japan and were popularized in America.
Q: How many fortunes exist?
A: Approximately 15,000 unique fortunes.
Importance of National Fortune Cookie Day
This day celebrates cultural fusion in American cuisine and honors a unique tradition that brings joy and whimsy to dining experiences. It recognizes both the treat’s historical significance and its role in modern food culture.
Related Celebrations
- National Cookie Day
- Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
- National Chinese Food Day
- World Food Day
- International Tea Day